Brihadisvara Temple
Also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil, Big Temple
UNESCO World Heritage Chola masterpiece, built entirely of granite. Its 66-metre vimana was the tallest in the world at the time of its consecration.
Photos of Brihadisvara Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Shiva
- Established
- 1010 CE
- Architecture
- Chola / Dravidian
- Address
- Membalam Rd, Balaganapathy Nagar, Thanjavur 613007
- Timings
- 06:00–12:30, 16:00–20:30
History of Brihadisvara Temple
Commissioned by Raja Raja Chola I to mark a millennium of Chola power. The single 80-tonne capstone above the sanctum remains an engineering mystery.
Festivals Celebrated at Brihadisvara Temple
- Sadaya Vizha
- Maha Shivaratri
How to Reach Brihadisvara Temple
Thanjavur is 350 km south of Chennai by road or rail. The temple is a short walk from the town centre.
Frequently Asked Questions about Brihadisvara Temple
Where is Brihadisvara Temple located?
- Brihadisvara Temple is located at Membalam Rd, Balaganapathy Nagar, Thanjavur 613007, in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Brihadisvara Temple?
- The presiding deity at Brihadisvara Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Brihadisvara Temple?
- Brihadisvara Temple is generally open 06:00–12:30, 16:00–20:30. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Brihadisvara Temple built?
- Brihadisvara Temple was established 1010 CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Brihadisvara Temple?
- Brihadisvara Temple is built in the Chola / Dravidian style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Brihadisvara Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Brihadisvara Temple include Sadaya Vizha, Maha Shivaratri. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Tamil Nadu and beyond.
How can I reach Brihadisvara Temple?
- Thanjavur is 350 km south of Chennai by road or rail. The temple is a short walk from the town centre.
Why is Brihadisvara Temple significant?
- UNESCO World Heritage Chola masterpiece, built entirely of granite. Its 66-metre vimana was the tallest in the world at the time of its consecration.
Is there an entry fee at Brihadisvara Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Brihadisvara Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Brihadisvara Temple?
- Brihadisvara Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Tamil Nadu temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.